Resolving phylogeny, evolution and species delimitation in challenging Australasian orchid lineages using phylogenomic approaches
Title of Project
Resolving phylogeny, evolution and species delimitation in challenging Australasian orchid lineages using phylogenomic approaches
Name of Advisor/s
Katharina Nargar
College
College of Science & Engineering
Summary of Project
Orchidaceae is one of the two largest vascular plant families, with its highest diversity in the tropics. In Australia, orchids are among the ten most diverse plant families, and harbour many threatened species. This project aims to 1) clarify phylogenetic relationships in poorly understood Australasian orchid lineages using phylogenomic approaches, 2) examine the evolution of morphological and ecological characters 3) examine possible drivers of their diversification, and 4) elucidate their spatio-temporal evolution. The study will contribute to a reassessment of controversial Australasian orchid systematics, and will underpin effective conservation management for rare orchid species.
Key Words
phylogenomics, plant diversification, evolution, systematics, Australia, Orchidaceae
Would suit an applicant who
Has an interest in plant molecular systematics and evolutionary biology. Experience with molecular phylogenetic analyses and bioinformatics are advantageous.
